Prince Andrew renounces Duke of York title amid Epstein scandal

Prince Andrew gives up his Duke of York title after talks with King Charles, citing ongoing accusations as distraction

Prince Andrew has announced he will no longer use his royal titles, including Duke of York, following a private discussion with King Charles III.

The decision comes amid renewed scrutiny over his past association with Jeffrey Epstein and ongoing scandals that have overshadowed the Royal Family.

In a short statement, Prince Andrew said the move was made to prevent “continued accusations” from distracting the King and other working royals. “I have decided to put my duty to my family and country first,” he said, reaffirming that he “vigorously denies” all allegations made against him.

The announcement marks a historic moment — the first time in more than a century that a senior royal has lost a dukedom. According to historian Anthony Seldon, the last such case occurred in 1919, when Prince Charles Edward was stripped of his title for siding with Germany during World War I.

While Andrew will remain a prince by birth and continue to be eighth in line to the throne, he will no longer be known as the Duke of York. His ex-wife will now be referred to as Sarah Ferguson, dropping her former title of Duchess of York. Their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will retain their royal titles.

Royal biographers note that the decision was likely influenced by the Palace’s growing frustration over Andrew’s lingering scandals, including his ties to Epstein and allegations by Virginia Giuffre, whose posthumous memoir is set to be released next week.

The move, while framed as voluntary, is being viewed as a decisive step by the monarchy to distance itself from one of its most controversial members.